How to Wash Your Face and Hands with Wilderness Wipes
By Sea to Summit | Outdoor Gear To Equip & Inspire | Published: 2026-10-24
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the proper technique for using Wilderness Wipes to clean your face and hands on the trail, including common mistakes and tips for effective no-rinse hygiene.
Quick answer
Use Wilderness Wipes to clean your face and hands when water isn't available: wipe in one direction, use a fresh section for your face, then seal and dispose of the wipe properly. This no-rinse solution removes sweat, salt, and odor without needing a shower.
Why Wilderness Wipes work for face and hands
When you're hiking or camping, water isn't always available for a proper wash. Wilderness Wipes are designed to clean and refresh when a shower, or even just water, isn't a possibility. They're pH balanced and gentle on your skin, making them suitable for your face and hands.
The extra thick fiber is soft and gentle, and the wipes contain aloe to help soothe your skin. They remove salt and unpleasant odors caused by sweat without needing to rinse, so you can stay clean and comfortable on the trail.
Common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is using the same side of the wipe for both your hands and face, which can transfer dirt and bacteria. Another is rubbing aggressively, which can irritate your skin. Finally, improper disposal—leaving wipes on the trail—harms the environment, even though they are compostable.
Step-by-step: Clean your face and hands with Wilderness Wipes
- Open the package and remove one wipe: Tear open the package at the notch and pull out one wipe. Reseal the package immediately to keep the remaining wipes from drying out. Check that the package is fully sealed after removing a wipe.
- Start with your hands: Use the wipe to clean your hands first, wiping between fingers and around nails. This removes the most dirt and prepares your hands to touch your face. If your hands are very dirty, consider using a second wipe for your face.
- Use a fresh side for your face: Fold the wipe to a clean side and gently wipe your face in upward strokes, avoiding the eye area. Use a new section for your forehead, cheeks, and chin. Don't rub too hard; let the wipe do the work to avoid irritation.
- Dispose of the wipe properly: After use, pack out the wipe in a trash bag. Even though Wilderness Wipes are compostable, they should be disposed of in a proper composting facility or trash receptacle, not left on the trail. Always carry a small trash bag to pack out used wipes.
Product facts
- Wilderness Wipes (Like New): Wilderness Wipes are extra thick, pH balanced, and contain aloe, making them soft and gentle on your skin. They are suitable for sensitive areas like your face and hands, providing effective cleaning without irritation.
Wilderness Wipes (Like New)
